Additional Coverage:
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s recent comments on Social Security have ignited a firestorm of criticism. During an appearance on the “All-In” podcast, the billionaire suggested that temporarily halting Social Security payments would be a viable method of identifying fraud.
He reasoned that those legitimately reliant on the benefits, like his 94-year-old mother-in-law, wouldn’t immediately notice or complain, while those fraudulently receiving funds would be quick to raise a fuss. Lutnick asserted that “whoever screams is the one stealing.”
This statement has drawn sharp rebukes from lawmakers and political commentators. South Carolina Representative James Clyburn criticized the “billionaires in the Trump administration,” stating they are “out of touch” with the reality of relying on Social Security. MSNBC host Rachel Maddow also lambasted Lutnick’s remarks, characterizing them as insensitive and absurd.
The Social Security Administration reports that 68 million Americans receive roughly $1.5 trillion in benefits annually. For many of these recipients, Social Security represents their sole source of income.
Benefits are earned through contributions made during years of employment and are calculated based on an individual’s earnings history. The average monthly payment for those who worked consistently until age 65 is approximately $1,800.
For context, the national average rent is currently around $1,607 per month, not accounting for additional essential expenses like food and utilities, which are also seeing price increases.